Route 23 will be getting safety improvements this summer.

The DeKalb City Council unanimously approved a mass road improvement project Monday night. The project will focus on the section of Route 23 (Fourth Street) from Sycamore Road to 500 feet south of Taylor Street.

The improvements include adding left turn lanes at the South Fourth and Taylor Streets, upgrading traffic signals, installing curb ramps at all intersections and re-striping the median between two travel lanes.

Fifth Ward Alderman Ronald Naylor said he was impressed with the project.

“I would just like to give my compliments,” Naylor said. “I think this a great use for the TIF projects and the TIF district. It’s going to improve and enhance the street system.”

The project is estimated to cost $4 million, which includes engineering, and is supported heavily by the state. DeKalb’s share of the $4 million is estimated at $187,000. The remainder of the project will be paid for using TIF funds.

The council also signed off on an Illinois law that regulates outdoor political campaign signs. Residents are no longer required to take down campaign signs during a set time period.

The size of the sign is still limited, but now if residents want to leave them standing forever then they can.

“We really have no choice,” said Mayor Kris Povlsen. “It is a decision that came down from the state.”